Steve Meachem

Steve Meachem, born January 15, 1952, in Ticonderoga, New York, passed away on December 9, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Raised in upstate New York, Steve later spent ten meaningful years in Ohio with his children before making Summerfield, Florida, his permanent home.

Steve proudly served four years in the United States Army, including two years stationed in Germany. His service and dedication were sources of deep pride throughout his life. After returning home, he built a long and steady career as a heavy machine operator - a role that reflected both his strong work ethic and his natural grit.

A man who found joy in life's simple and quiet moments, Steve enjoyed spending time with his family, fishing, hunting, and relaxing in the Florida sunshine. Above all, he was known for his remarkable ability to put others before himself. This selflessness shone brightest during his courageous five-year battle with cancer, during which he continued to focus on the well-being of his loved ones rather than his own struggle.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, David Kingsley Meachem and Aileen Louise French, and his brother-in-law, Michael Ryan.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Laura Jean (Walker) Meachem; his siblings, Sarah (Meachem) Ryan and Sam Meachem, along with Sam's wife, Bonnie (Cutting) Meachem. Steve is also survived by his former wife, Wanda Harper, the mother of his children Angela (Meachem) Schmidt (married to Eric Schmidt), Steve Meachem, and Adrienne Meachem. He is survived as well by his children: Shena Meachem (fiancé Sasha Yates), Tammie VanVleet, Samantha VanVleet, and Pamala VanVleet.

Steve leaves behind many grandchildren who brought immense joy to his life: Tyler Schmidt (married to Sydney Corzatt Schmidt), Isaac Schmidt, Abigail Gillman (fiancé Caleb Rhoades), Isiah Ryan, Dakota Meachem, and Destiny West. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Tiana Schmidt, Isiaha Schmidt, and Ellie Schmidt.

Steve will be remembered for his gentle strength, generous heart, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Steve's family will hold a viewing on December 12, 2025, at Baldwin Brothers Funeral Home in The Villages, Florida. A Celebration of Life is planned for Spring 2026 in Crown Point, New York, where his ashes will be laid to rest.